Fri Dec 27 03:59:25 UTC 2024: **Fort Kochi Implements Crowd Control Measures Ahead of New Year’s Eve**
KOCHI, INDIA (December 27, 2024) – In response to the massive crowds that flocked to Fort Kochi, particularly during the Christmas celebrations at Veli Ground, city police have implemented new crowd control measures, starting Thursday. These measures, some of which are currently being trialled, follow a stampede-like incident on New Year’s Eve 2023 that left many injured.
The police are enforcing a roadside parking ban and a one-way traffic system on key routes. These changes, made in consultation with event organizers, aim to manage the influx of visitors drawn to the giant Christmas tree and the Pappanji display at Veli Ground. Police sources stated that restrictions on access will be implemented if the area’s carrying capacity is exceeded.
Further measures were decided at a meeting chaired by the Mattancherry Assistant Commissioner of Police on Thursday. These include restricting vehicle access via Ro-Ro jankar from Vypeen to Fort Kochi to 4 p.m. on December 31st, and pedestrian access to 7 p.m. After 7 p.m., the jankars will operate solely for transporting people from Fort Kochi to Vypeen, as directed by the police. These precautions are designed to prevent a repeat of last year’s chaotic situation.
First Piper 